Black Friday

Every year, I look forward to Thanksgiving. It's one of my favorite holidays of the year. Some people on the other hand are more excited about the day after Thanksgiving shopping. I was never one of those kind of folk until today..

Just a few days ago, my mom and I both said that there's nothing in the world that we needed so badly that we'd be at the mall before dawn taking advantage of the door buster deals. However, before Thanksgiving dinner last night, we paged through the ads and couldn't believe some of the deals. They were too good to pass up....so yes, mom and I treked it out to the mall at 4:30 a.m.

Surprisingly, the mall was not that crowded at 5 a.m. when we got there. The Wal-Mart we passed on the way there however, that was a different story with a full parking lot. Mom and I hit our favorite stores, snatching up to 40% off our total purchase for the day at each stop. For two shopaholics like us, we couldn't say no.

By 7 a.m. we headed to another mall, came back home then treked back out at 10 a.m. When we went back at 10, now that was a horrible time to go...tons of people which means super hard time trying to find parking. Moral of the story, get there early on. Yes, it's early but you can be done early enough to go home and head back to bed.

I never understood why it was so important to grab such deals that early in the morning when I'd much rather be snuggled in bed. But, when I saw the great deals you can get on items that hardly ever go on sale, well then I couldn't say no.

I think mom and I might have found a new holiday tradition...

Voting from your couch..

I can do pretty much anything I want from the comfort of my couch with my laptop.

I can book a trip..work from home..watch a tv show..shop..look for recipes...the possibilities are endless..

But we still have to go and vote at a polling place.

With the way technology has evolved over the years you would think by now that there's a way to vote from the comfort of your own computer.

I know it doesn't take long to go vote since there's no lines to wait in since voter turn out is extremely low..but after observing the way I have to tell them my name, they write it down etc. it seems (dare I say it) barbaric.

It makes me wonder what the future of voting is and if things will ever change to keep up with technology. I personally think it might help to move to an online voting system as it might get more people to vote. Although we will always have the issue of uneducated voters as well.

Do you think voting should move online? Will it increase votership?

All the stockings were hung by the chimney with care...

It's November..for some people, that means it's ok to already start listening to Christmas music. Others are nowhere near ready for the holiday season that is fast approaching.

It seems every year Christmas decorations come out earlier and earlier in the stores. I saw some out at Garden Ridge back at the end of July! Typically though, it seems that department stores start their decorations around the beginning of October and go full force right before Halloween.

For my family, it was our "rule" that Christmas decorations go up right after Thanksgiving and come down around New Year's. Since I've been on my own the past two years with holiday decorating in my own house, I don't have a ton of things like my parents do..but I have my fair share of Christmas decorations.

Last year from November through March, I went through real estate hell. I spent all of December in a hotel while my stuff was in storage..moved back home and lived with only a mattress on the floor, a tv and boxes spread among me for the next 4 months. Needless to say, I didn't put out any Christmas decorations last year...

This past weekend, I found my Christmas decorations and I got so excited to put them out since I really had not seen them in almost two years. It doesn't feel like the holiday season yet to me...the warmer than usual temperatures and no snow on the ground are contributing to that. I am anxious to put my few items out, but feel I can't until Thanksgiving....

So, what's your rule on holiday decorations? Are you a Scrooge or anxiously await by the chimney for Santa Claus?

Official Race Times...

Alright here they are!!!

*NOTE..I'm not the fastest runner yet-I just started running two months ago!

Race to the Holland 5k
47th place 33:08

Zoo Run 8k
227th 51:49.47 (out of 860!)
#60 out of 112 in the 20-29 women category

I know some people might think these times are a bit redic, but it was my second 5k and my first time ever running an 8k (or 5 miles in general!)..needless to say I'm quite proud.

The running has continued..I'm starting to train for a half marathon now..I don't know which one but it's on!

Red Mango

If you've read my blog before, you know that I absolutely LOVE sweets. If I could eat cupcakes, donuts and candy all day, everyday, I totally would.

I realize that my sweets habit isn't the best for my waistline..hence why I work out everyday since it seems I have the appetite of a 15 year old boy sometimes. But lucky for me, I've found a new alternative...

A few months ago, a Red Mango opened in West Omaha, but I didn't venture into it since I'm hardly ever out that way. But..reently one opened down the street from me in One Pacific Place. I made a trip into the store shortly after it opened and I fell in love.

It's self serve..there's a dozen or so frozen yogurt varieties with tons of different toppings. There's lots of different fruits to add on, as well as various cereals, sprinkles and chocolate toppings. It's .45 cents an ounce...I chose the smallest container, filled it with vanilla yogurt and added some strawberries, sprinkles and oreos and it was about 5 dollars.

Their website boasts about being around 90 calories..but who knows what it was once I added my toppings. A small was more like a medium to me but it was still delish! It's probably better that I hit up Red Mango rather than Coldstone each time I want my sweets fix!

Happy Halloween!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Hope everyone had a great Halloween! To be honest, I've never been a fan of the holiday. Growing up, anything in a costume scared me..and they still do! Don't ever let a clown or mascot get near me because I'm a bit terrified of them..

I was all set for trick or treaters tonight and not even one showed up on my doorstep! I couldn't believe it! Good thing I've been snacking on the candy all week...now I have to finish up the bag!

Sex and the City 2

I always love when new movies come on out DVD..but I am especially excited that Sex and the City 2 comes out tomorrow! I've been dying to see it again ever since I saw it in the theatre this past summer. I can't wait to snuggle on my couch and watch it tomorrow night.

Just keep swimming...

So this past weekend, I decided to run 2 races..yes not 1, but 2 in the same weekend! Since I started running about a month ago, I've really jumped onto this bandwagon. I mainly did the races to push myself out of my comfort zone.

I did the 5k Race to the Holland on Saturday morning with B..it benefited the youth orchestra here. On Sunday, I did the 8k race at the zoo by myself and boy what a doozy that was!

By signing up for my second 5k, it really forced me to continue to run when I go to the gym. Otherwise, I would definitely not be running everyday since it hurts sometimes and I get sore still. The 8k I did to really push myself out of the box. I can get stuck in a workout rut just like everyone else where I do the same ole' routine; running those 5 miles really forced me to try something new.

I ran the 5k in 34 minutes...not the best time in the world since I know I can do it in about 25 minutes. But, I'm still not used to running outside, especially when it's a frigid morning.

For the 8k, I really didn't know what to expect. Once I found out it was a very hilly course, I thought I was doomed. To be honest, my only expectation was to finish and I was hoping to finish around 1 hour and 5 minutes (my asthma still can get the best of me and I have to walk for a lil bit to catch my breath.) To my surprise, I finished in 51 minutes. I couldn't believe it and couldn't be more proud of exceeding my expectations considering I've never run 5 miles before.

So, it's official, I will do a half marathon now. I started to doubt myself and running when I was on mile 4 on Sunday. I was in pain from all the running and was so tired that I didn't think I could ever run a half marathon. But seeing a fabulous finish time got me even more motivated to train for one.

I'm still deciding on which one to do...I am really leaning towards the Disney Princess half marathon in March..

and off we go!!

I'm so excited and I just can't hide it!

Well...we will add another addition to our NAM fam next year. Two weddings and now two babies!!

I am over the moon excited to let y'all know I'm going to be an auntie in the spring! My sister and her hubby are expecting. My family can not be anymore excited..with my mom and I being so anxious to meet the little one.

She finds out next month what the gender is of the baby and the suspense is killing me. Every time I go shopping I want to buy this lil snuggle bear things but everything is either pink or blue. There's no in between colors these days.

So I'll be waiting patiently until next month..

Walk this way?

So as I posted about two weeks ago, the bf and I did our first 5k together. I took it a bit more seriously running each day unlike the bf, who thought he would be a pro runner with no practice (gotta love him..)

I am surprised with the fact that I have actually kept up with my running each day at the gym. It doesn't matter how sore or tired I am, I force myself to get onto the treadmill...or outside since the weather has been gorgeous! As much as I dislike it the first mile or so I'm running, in the end I feel absolutely great.

Running my first 5k got me motivated to do my second one...so the bf and I signed up to do the Run to the Holland benefiting the youth orchestra this weekend. It's the first year for it and you had your choice of a 1 mile, 3 mile or 10 mile...needless to say we stuck with the 3 mile.

BUT! Recently I started running a 4 mile loop around my neighborhood. Most people might not think that 4 miles is that much, but for the non-runner that I still am, it was quite the accomplishment. A few days ago while browsing online, I came across an 8k at the zoo on Sunday and with a little bit of coaxing from one of my besties who is quite the avid runner, I signed up to do it...

that means two races this weekend! EEEK!!

I like that I'm running races because it really allows me to push myself which I might not normally do. Now I will admit, I am kicking myself for signing up to do both as I know that Monday I will be extremely sore...but I like that I'm taking myself out of my comfort zone and trying something new.

I'm not trying to get done in record time. I have goals for each race that I hope to accomplish..

So stay tuned over the weekend to see how it all turns out!

Nothing Bundt Cakes

We all know that I have a MAJOR sweet tooth...

Today I was at the Big O Show all day for work..luckily, samples of food got me through the long day! One booth was for Nothing Bundt Cakes, a new bakery coming to One Pacific Place. Just my luck too, right down the street from my house!

It was amazing cake with some even more incredible frosting. Check out their website, they have some adorable seasonal colors for the cakes. I am such a huge fan of cute bakeries like these..they always put a smile on my face. And it's nice to have fresh bakery items around the house. Now is only we could get a Sprinkles cupcakes here!

Date Night

Date night is one of my favorite things to do with my bf...we've both become so busy that it's quite the rarity but we make time for it.

One of our best dates (and easiest to decide on) is dinner and a movie. We recently started going to ingredient down at Midtown Crossing. The bf got one of those groupon type deals from a radio station so we got a $50 for $25.

They have tons of choices at ingredient, and best of all, everything is fresh and organic. Both times we've gone, we go the "date night" special on saturday night which is salad, pizza, desert and drinks. The pizza has TONS of different delicious and healthy toppings to choose from. It's gluten free pizza as well...which to be honest I was not sure how that would be, but you can't even tell the difference. I highly recommend this place..casual and delicious!

As for a movie, we much rather watch a movie at home then go out. Unless I'm DYING to see a new movie in the theatre, I can wait till it comes on my Netflix. Plus, I love snuggling with my pup!

This weekend we watched Letters to Juliet. I'm a typical chick flick kinda girl and this movie was adorable..even the bf liked it!

It takes awhile for the story to get going, but it's a cute love story that girls (and guys alike) will love!

Race for the Cure...

So..I've always hated running.....seriously disliked it with a passion. Any time I would try to run, within a half mile I'd give up because of the pain I'd get in my ankles and knees (years of dancing and ice skating have taken a toll on my body.)

Until recently, when I decided I wanted to run in the Race for the Cure. About a month ago, I forced myself into running. I started out just doing a mile here or there at the gym, eventually working my way up to three miles on a loop around my neighborhood.

It has definitely not been easy trying to get into running. Many times I wanted to stop or give up because the pain would get worse the farther I'd go and the more sore I'd be the next day..and I really hated that.

Through some pain, I've conquered my hate relationship with running and I actually like it now. This morning, my bf and I ran the 5k here and we ran the majority of the way. Our official end time was 37:50..however we had a slow start due to walker's being in our way. It took us a good 2-3 minutes to make it to the start line to run. I'd say for our first 5k that's pretty good.

Our goal was to run as much as we could and we ran almost 2 miles without stopping...he stopped for his shin splints, me for my asthma. I thought we'd continue to walk the rest of the way, but the competitive side of me got into the race and I wanted to beat every one else around me..

I was proud of our finish time and that we crossed the finish line together. We beat our goal and ran farther than we both thought we could...and now my competitive spirit has got the best of me and I'm searching for my next run! I'm hoping to do a half marathon or a 10k sometime, somewhere soon so stay tuned!!

Rock of Ages

This past weekend I went home to good ole Wisconsin for the weekend. I always love going home..getting to spend time with my family, seeing my dogs and sleeping in my bed are a few of my favorite things that greet me there.

This past weekend, my mom, sister and myself went down to Chicago. Of course we did some shopping (who wouldn't!) but we really went to see the musical Rock of Ages. My mom and I saw it in NYC last summer right after it opened on Broadway and it is PHENOMENAL! It's a love story about two wanna be rockers that fall in love but all the songs are 80's rock songs. Think Styx, Journey, REO Speedwagon. It doesn't feel like a musical at all, it feels more like a rock concert.

They're on tour this year so if you get the chance to see it, I highly recommend it!

Rock of Ages-Tony Awards

Technology has come a long way...

Earlier this summer, I mentioned to my mom that I wanted a kindle or a nook (i.e. Christmas present!) I loved reading and am tired of having books I've read just lay around after I'm done with them. I thought an e-reader would be the answer to that.

Enter my dad..king of electronics. He loves buying electronics..tv's, speakers, headphones to be exact. I remember when I moved into my apartment my Junior year of college, I was going to take my small television from my bedroom at home.

Dad thought that wasn't good enough.

As we were setting up my apartment, in walks my dad with a huge new flat screen tv for us with the matching tv stand of course. Thanks dad!!

So a few weeks into summer, mom calls me on my cell. She and Dad were at Best Buy and she was asking me a series of questions about ipads (Dad may know his televisions but he is still quite computer illiterate.) Dad thought that since I mentioned it and it was the latest in technology, that I needed it. Mom helped a little bit by persuading him and saying I needed something to keep me occupied in the car while traveling.

I absolutely LOVE my ipad. It went with me all over the country this summer and I was able to download seasons of Sex and the City and watch them in order..LOVE IT!

It's a fabulous companion to have on the couch with me at night instead of my laptop too.

And today I downloaded my first book on it and am loving reading on here much more than a book. I'm already into chapter 2 (I hardly ever read more than a chapter a day) into my new book, Minishopaholic. 

The best accessory to my ipad is my Bose noise reducing headphones (Dad is a HUGE fan of Bose). He got them because he thought I could wear them while working out..but they're a bit bulky for my style. HOWEVER, I don't know how I ever went on road trips or plane rides without them. My ears actually hurt after I turn them off. Best invention ever!!

Dancing with the Stars....

The newest season of Dancing with the Stars starts at the end of September. Anticipation grew last night as the cast was announced..what are your thoughts on the newest dancing queens?

• Bristol Palin, to me, is the Kate Gosselin of this season. I do give her credit but hope she goes home much sooner than Kate did.
• Jennifer Grey should be a delight to watch. Although, she said on the reveal to give her some slack-she can't move the same way she used to. I think she'll be surprised at how well she can still shake what her momma gave her.
• David Hasselhoff-should be an entertainer I'm sure. 
• Mike the Situation-really? I'm sure he'll get the younger audience votes though
• Margaret Cho-hoping she's a hoot and a half!
• Florence Henderson - I was really hoping for Betty White, but I'm sure she'll be a dancing queen on that floor. 
• Michael Bolton-I've got a feeling he'll go far.

More thoughts and analysis to come once the season unfolds!

New layout.....

Like the new background? I've been playing around lately and love the new background I picked..it really describes my personality!

In other news, it is fabulous weather here today. I am very anxious to get rid of summer (the heat and humidity don't get along well with my naturally curly hair). Fall is my favorite time of the year and I hear it knocking on the door ;)

Healthy Eating Snacks...

So I'm a junk food girl at heart...and I'll be the first to tell you I love to eat. I think I have the metabolism of a 15 year old boy with the way I eat sometimes! But as much as I know I shouldn't be eating junk food as snacks, I still do it :/ FAIL! I am trying really hard though to find new substitutes for my eating habits.

In come two of my new favorites..

If I could eat sweets all day, everyday, I totally would. BUT, I can't and I have found a fabulous substitute. I used to love the small cup portions of the Edy's Slow Churned Ice Cream. Yesterday however, I tried the yogurt blend of chocolate fudge brownie and it was AMAZING! I could tell it wasn't exactly ice cream as it had a more dairy taste...but it was so creamy and the brownie bites were awesome! It was hard to believe that it was under 200 calories!

I also tried pop chips over the weekend. I had heard of these through friends on twitter and reading about it in magazines but never tried them. I picked up a bag at Target and was pleasantly surprised at how delicious they were. They taste just like a regular potato chip minus the grease.

If you love food and need some new substitutes for your old ways, check out these two new options..you won't be disappointed!

Fitness......Fail

A couple of months ago, I subscribed to Netflix. I was an avid redbox user previously...the 99 cent movie rental was appealing. But most of the time, by the time I got home and started the movie, I'd fall asleep halfway through it. Then I'd scramble the next day to finish it before returning it so I wouldn't have to pay more...

In comes Netflix. I pay $13 a month to have 2 movies out at a time...so I typically watch 2 movies a week which comes out to 8 rentals a month (sometimes more). Sure, I pay a few bucks more than I would at rebox, but being able to watch them when I want (I had two movies in my possession for 4 months before I actually watched them!) and having them delivered right to my mailbox are quite appealing.

I typically just watch new releases on Netflix, until a few months ago when I wanted to buy some new fitness DVD's. I tried to read reviews of some online, but I can't depend on those. Even if it got rave reviews, I might dislike it. So, I put a few on there and recently got one..

HA, I know...the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader DVD. As a dancer, I thought this would be appealing to me. I also thought it might be a nice DVD to add to my repertoire for those days I just don't feel like going to the gym. 

I thought this was going to be an hour long sweat session boot camp. You know, similar to what I've done at classes at the gym...where you alternate weights and cardio.

WELL....I was very disappointed with this DVD. I thought I'd be getting some new weight moves to try to but this came up short. It was very slow paced (I didn't break a sweat so needless to say that large chocolate chip cookie I ate earlier is still in my tummy!) and many of the exercises required no weights so it was not challenging at all. Needless to say, my body did not get any harder from this boot camp.

If you want an introduction to a boot camp style, then this might be for you.

Overall grade: C - 

Things I love.....

Snuggling with my puppy

I love warm chocolate chip cookies

Cupcakes make any day better 

Reading is the perfect thing to do on a rainy day

I could eat breakfast for each meal of the day

I'd be lost without my iphone

I adore long car rides with B

Fall is my favorite season...

Christmas is my favorite holiday

New shoes make everything better

More to come....

Getting my fit on...

For the past 6 years, I have loved working out. It wasn't until after high school that I actually understood what it meant to lift weights and do cardio. Prior to that, my only working out consisted of dancing, ice skating or baton twirling.

But, being a working full time adult doesn't leave me with a whole lot of time to work out like I wish I had. I'm just like everyone else and once in awhile I get in a rut. Sometimes, it's just too hard to wake up at 5 a.m. to go work out. I have a good balance of going to different classes as well as switching up my cardio and weights each day.

The past few weeks though have been rough. Trying to get back into the swing of things after traveling and being gone so much was tough. Needless to say, I've been lacking in the sleep department so each morning when my 5 a.m. alarm goes off, I roll back over to sleep.

I've had some workout DVD's sitting around, but rarely used them. This past week one morning I popped in one of my Biggest Loser DVD's just hoping to do a little bit of a work out, and I was quite surprised as what a good work out I got in.

I did level 2 and 3 on the Boot Camp DVD. Level 2 definitely had me sweating, while level 3 was a good toning session. Combined, it was only 25 minutes, so it was much shorter than my usual one hour work out but it was better than nothing.

While I wouldn't do this DVD everyday, it gave me a quick work out when I didn't have much time and still gave me some new moves to add to my repertoire.

Overall grade: A - 

Date Night...

Tonight was the first night in....oh man, I don't even know how long, that B and I got to go out on a date. For the past two months, it's been go to work, come home and do more work, then go to pageants on the weekends. Between all the traveling and work, we haven't had any time to relax! Since we're finally getting caught up on things at home, I decided it was most definitely for some time away from the house. I was so tired of staring at computer screens for 16 hours a day!

We headed down to Jazz on the Green tonight. It's the ONLY one we could make this year! It's one of our favorite things to do, but all the traveling this summer has interfered with it sadly :(

But, me, B and miss Giavanna headed down there. Thank goodness it wasn't as humid today. We haven't been down to Midtown Crossing yet and WOW! It's a fabulous area. We are very anxious to try all the new restaurants down there. It was such a welcome to get out of the house and relax for once. We love to sit and people watch down there, and Miss Gia likes to make friends with EVERYONE that walks up.

I'm bummed that's the only one we could go to this summer, but until next year!!

Yum of the Day

I fell in love with smoothies while traveling with the bf two years ago. At a QT gas station in Des Moines, I found a strawberry banana smoothie and my oh my was it delicious!




I just found out over the weekend that McDonald's now has smoothies in two flavors: wild berry and strawberry banana. On my way to work this morning, I got a strawberry banana one and it did not disappoint! It's made with yogurt and real fruit and was the perfect way to start the day. Highly recommend it!

Hello again!

I've seriously been lacking in the posting department this past month because I've been out of town most of the time. The few times I am home, I'm cleaning or doing laundry...doing more work or sleeping! This is the first time in over a month that I've had a chance to sit down and relax for a few hours..

I've been super swamped at work and the past four weekends I was out of town working pageants. Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Illinois to be exact...this next weekend we are off to Missouri=no rest for the weary!

I'm making this one short and sweet but I'll be back in action now!

Pageant Season...

Well, it's that time of the year....PAGEANT SEASON! This next weekend our tour begins and I couldn't be more excited. I love being able to spend the weekend working with my besties and getting to see my mom too! But I also love being around a hobby that I am so passionate about and love helping little girls achieve their dreams. It feels like just yesterday I was in their little high heels! 

I've worked for NAM for the past few years and I still am involved in it because pageants have done so much for me. When I entered my first pageant at the age of 7 (and no, my parents NEVER forced me into it like you see on tv-it was completely my decision!), I was so excited to perform on stage because I was a dancer, but was petrified to talk to someone else in an interview. I look at how far I've come over the past 16 years in pageantry and can not believe that I was that little girl!

And with that said, it's off to the races! This weekend, it's off to Iowa. The following weekend is Nebraska and after that, off to my home state of Wisconsin. Then I'm home for less than 36 hours before it's a LOOOONNNNNNGGGG (but enjoyable) drive to Arizona with Brandon and Gia.

Rounding out the end of July, I'm off to Missouri follow by Minnesota and ending the season in Illinois. It's tiring to work everyday in 4 inch heels, but it's a job I wouldn't give up for anything in the world!

Pen Pals

Growing up, did you have a pen pal? I had two that I can remember. I think I was in third grade when our class got pen pals at another local grade school. We wrote letters to each other about school and got to meet our pen pal at a special lunch at the end of the school year. Being 9 years old at the time, I thought that was pretty cool.

I also remember having another pen pal that I got through American Girl magazine. You told them what your interests were and they paired you up with another girl who had the same interests. Apparently that pen pal didn't make much of an impact on me as I don't even remember where she was from!

Of course times have changed and snail mail and letters changed to e-mails and e-cards. But, I for one have always LOVED to send cards. It doesn't have to even be a holiday or special occasion; I just love finding cute cards that pertain to my friends or family and sending them out.

One of my best friends from college, Kelly, also loves to send cards. We chat daily online and also text message quite often too. Quite frankly, I'd be lost without her. One day we were talking about cards and pen pals and randomly decided to become each other's pen pals. No, we don't write long letters and mail them to each other. We just find fun cards to send to each other.

Although we talk everyday, it's nice to receive a little love in the mail amongst bills and junk mail. It always puts a smile on my face.

I challenge you to do the same. You don't have to necessarily find a pen pal, but take more time to send cards and letters to the ones you love. It may be a bit old-fashioned, but nothing beats a handwritten note from someone to brighten their day. 

Cupcake Wars

Anyone who knows me knows that I have the world's biggest sweet tooth. If I could, I would eat cupcakes, cookies and chocolate all day everyday. In fact, it's my dream to one day open a cupcake cafe/bakery. I can only make cupcakes out of a box though..ha!

I also will tell you that I LOVE to wind down and watch tv...mindless tv at that. One of my new favorite shows is Cupcake Wars on the Food Network. It always makes me hungry when I watch it now!

Happy Monday!

I hope everyone had a fabulous day off of work! I did a nice work out this morning, followed by tanning all day! I am happy to report that I finally am looking a bit more bronzed.

But before I went out to enjoy this beautiful day, I have had this urge to bake something. Last night, I looked through some of my Taste of Home cookbooks and came across this recipe for cookies: Double Chocolate Sprinkle Cookies.

These are a different version than the typical chocolate chip cookie. These have oats in them as well as chocolate sprinkles. I love how big they are. This is achieved by rolling the dough into balls and pressing them down with a glass. Word to the wise, dip the glass in flour every few times..it helps to make it easier to push down.

Overall, they are pretty good cookies. Mine didn't look completely done at the 12 minute mark so I left them in a bit more and now they're a bit crunchier than my liking. I prefer soft cookies. But it's nothing a quick zap in the microwave won't fix.

Overall grade: B +

Happy Memorial Day!

I hope that everyone is having a nice, long, relaxing holiday weekend! For me, it's been nice to have absolutely nothing to do this weekend. It's my first FULL weekend off since the end of March. I only have 3 more full weekends off till it's pageant time...then I'm on the road almost every weekend till Labor Day!


Yesterday I worked on my tan, and today did some shopping and yard work. And of course, I've been enjoying the new patio set I got Friday night as well as grilling out and taking advantage of the beautiful weather with some long walks with Gia. 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Thank you to EVERYONE from the bottom of my heart for all the love and birthday wishes, whether it was a card, phone call, text, ecard, facebook or twitter. It was a fabulous 24th!

My birthday celebrations started a week early with B taking me to see Legally Blonde the musical. I got some awesome gifts from my parents, including Vera Bradley stuff of course and some new clothes.  My sister got me a new VB purse and a grilling cookbook that has already been put to good use!

These are the delicious ice cream cupcakes B and I got from Coldstone. They're amazing...you must go try them! 

Some of the cards and flowers sitting in the kitchen!

Walking on sunshine

While spring is not my favorite time because of my allergies, I do love this season because each night after work (weather and allergies pending) I take miss Giavanna on a nice long walk. It's so nice to be able to enjoy this nice weather before the summer comes. I prefer the weather to be between 55 and 75. Anything above that I'm not a fan of!

Typically I've worn my running shoes on our walks or just an older pair of tennis shoes, but my new neighborhood consists of a lot more hills. I figured rather than ruin my running shoes (since I'm starting to train for a half marathon) then I should invest in a good pair of walking shoes.

I ended up getting a pair of Reebok EasyTones. I figured since these claim to strengthen your calves and thighs that they're worth a shot!

While it's been raining the past few days and I haven't been able to try them out on the road yet, I can tell you that from just trying them on, they were the MOST COMFORTABLE pair of tennis shoes I have EVER put on.

I'll let you know when I test them out and if they actually do "work!"

Cheeseburger in Paradise

I'll be the first one to admit that I have the eating habits of a 15 year old and I attribute that to years of working out and having a fast metabolism.

The other day I got a free coupon in my inbox from Culver's (one of my favorite fast food places!) for a free ice cream sundae for my birthday. It got me thinking what other freebies can I get for turning a year older?

Upon googling it, there are an ENDLESS amount of restaurants that offer you something free on your birthday. From free ice cream at Coldstone to a free bagel from Bruegger's. I confess, I did sign up for a lot of them. While I probably won't use most, at least this gives me an excuse to extend my birthday for a couple of weeks after. I mean, growing up I always did consider May to be my birthday month..I thought I didn't get just ONE day but a WHOLE month instead!

Everything old is new again...

Looking back on what I wore back in the 90's in grade school, I thought I was pretty fashionable. After wearing a uniform all week at school, I couldn't wait for the weekends to sport my "cool" clothes.


No outfit was complete unless a scrunchie was on your wrist...or a slap bracelet. 


Bell bottom and flared jeans became a rag among the 4th graders at my school.


Rompers and jelly shoes were all the fave in 2nd grade.


My mom always told me that she wished she had saved her clothes for me..she always told me vintage is in! In fact, one of my favorite designers is Betsey Johnson, and my mom had a dress from her back in the 70's. I wish I could have it now!


Growing up, I never thought that clothes I wore as a child would come back in style. But I just looked at The Limited and look what we have here...

Looks like my cool rompers from the second grade are back in this season. I wonder if my jelly shoes would look stylish with that? 

Attention Sex and the City fans...

If you're a Sex and the City fan like myself, then I'm sure you're anxious for the sequel to the first movie to hit theaters in May. It's been a long time coming and if any of you are as impatient as I am, here's something to tide you over in the mean time....

The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell is a book about what Carrie was like in her high school days. Although it's a "teen" book, I still think it'll be a fabulous read. It comes out on Tuesday so check it out!

Life in the fast lane

This past weekend, I had a little run in with the law (more about that later)....and wasn't able to get out of it using my last name. Cue embarrassing moments here...

See, I'm born and raised from America's Dairyland, Wisconsin. Back home, my dad was a Lt. Detective for the Milwaukee Police Department and was head of the homicide division for 26 years. My dad was quite well-known throughout the city since any time there was a shooting etc, he was on television, and with a last name like Spingola, well he was hard to forget. Having my dad had its perks (and embarrassing moments) and after moving to Nebraska, I lost those benefits......

First embarassing moment with dad...he followed me on my first date.

Next hilarious moment..(which was not so hilarious at the time)..About three weeks after I turned 16, I was driving to dance practice with two of my friends in tow. I was running late so I put the petal to the metal (a trait inherited from my dad the robo-cop) hoping to not show up too late. WOO WOO WOOOOOO....red and blue lights flashed behind me and my heart just about jumped out of my chest. Not even having my license a month and I'm getting stopped. GREAT! A million thoughts ran through my head...

I'll never drive again

Mom and dad are going to kill me

Goodbye social life

How do I tell mom and dad?

Do I tell him who my dad is?

Once the officer reached the window and told me how fast I had been going, I handed over my license (puppy eyes and all) when the officer said "Are you related to Steve?"

"Yes sir, that's my dad"

The officer said I'll be right back and within 30 seconds he was back at my window as I thought to myself that was fast...

Rather than handing me a ticket the officer told me "Instead of giving you a ticket, I called your dad and I'll let him deal with you." Gee thanks officer..

Within a minute, my mom had called me to scream and yell (which she had the right too)..

Story ends with my mom telling me I won't be driving for a VERY long time but dad sat me down asked if I was sorry and told me to never do it again and handed my keys back. Thanks dad!!

Enter this past Sunday...I was heading to Ames to do an Open Call for NAM. I tend to get a lead foot driving the freeway especially on long drives so I always use my cruise control. I was about a half hour from my destination when I turned north onto I-35 and was behind slow drivers in the fast lane. Me being the impatient little girl I am, I changed lanes to pass up these other road warriors. 

As I was passing them, I starting to see a lot of state troopers that had pulled people over and I remembered this was the same spot my bf got stopped last summer. So I decided to slow down...and as I did, WOO WOO WOOOOOO and flashing lights came.

My first thought was "WHERE WAS HE HIDING?!" and as the trooper came to my window, he informed me that a helicopter caught me. But when I handed over my license this time, the officer obviously didn't know who my dad was and now I'm stuck paying the ticket.

I remember when....

I heard an interesting conversation on the radio this morning about whether or not kids should have cell phones. One parent on the morning radio show called in to say that good parents should know where their kids are so they don't need a cell phone. Another called to say her 8 year old had one in case of an emergency and one such emergency was when the bus was two hours late getting her home.

It got me to thinking back to the days when I was a kid and we didn't have the Internet or cell phones and wondered if my parents would have given me one at a young age.

 

I know...it's hard to imagine life without a cell phone or any of the new technology we have today for that matter. 

I remember when Apple had smaller computers back in the 90s and how I LOVED getting to play Oregon Trail and Word Munchers on it any time I got the chance.

I remember when I learned how to "surf the web" in 5th grade. It seemed like a foreign language to me. A search engine? The internet? huh? 

I remember when we got the Internet at our house and we had to use the phone line to dial the connection. If someone called, you got booted off!

I remember when I didn't have a cell phone and my friends had to call my house. And mom or dad would have to interrupt when they needed to make a phone call.

I remember when cell phones first got popular in the 90s and how they were so big that they were almost bigger than my mom's purse (ok, total exagerration but they seemed big at the time.) I didn't get a cell phone until I was 15, which was only because I was going to be driving soon and was only to be used in emergency situations as well as letting my parents know where I was. That of course changed when I got a bf who I, obviously, had to call ALL the time. But at the time, my cell phone was only limited to calling and didn't have all the fancy features it has currently.

I remember when Facebook first came out in 2004. I signed up for it, didn't understand it and let it sit for the next 6 months. When it became a big hit, I jumped on the bandwagon and have checked it everyday ever since.

Boy, I'm starting to feel like I'm dating myself. And I'm sure one day my kids will look at me when I tell them I didn't have the Internet as a kid and they'll think I lived with the Flintstones. Then again, I was the 6 year old girl who truly believed that when we hit the year 2000 the world was going to be like the Jetsons.

It just makes you wonder, if technology has come so far so fast, where are we headed to next?

The case of the heavy purse....

Tonight, I flew back to Wisconsin to spend the weekend with my family. And tonight, all my mom and I did was relax on the couch which was nice. Well....actually I gave my mom a tutorial on her new iphone and filled my new ipod shuffle up with songs...but other than that, it was laying on the couch watching tv.

Of course since it's a Friday night, there's not much on. But, we came across QVC and they were showing Vera Bradley on it. For those of you who don't know, I am OBSESSED with all things Vera..as are my mom and sister. Every time I look at the site, it makes me want EVERYTHING in EVERY pattern!

One of the items they were showing was a new purse. Lately, I have been feeling the brunt of a much too heavy purse and it got me to thinking about what I keep in my handbags...

I remember when I turned 16 and I got my first designer purse...a light brown Coach purse (as pictured above) that was just big enough to fit my wallet and new car keys. And now, I carry a large Kate Spade tote that has a wallet, cosmetic case, inhaler, sunglasses, glasses, car keys, hand sanitizer, and lotion among other things. Everyday it's a challenge for me to find things in my endless pit of a purse. And as much as I'd like to take out unnecessary things, I am a true believer in the Girl Scout mantra of "Always be prepared."

I have kleenex for when you need to blow your nose...

Nasal spray because who knows when my sinus' will act up....

A tide stick since I can be a sloppy eater...

Pen or two for when you don't get one to sign the bill when you're out to eat...

All these among other things..

I wish I was a bit more simplistic and didn't think I'd need all of those things. I'll be honest, it's rare I need to use the Tide stick...in fact I probably use it more when I'm just at home and not out and about! But I bet if I took it out, I'd need to use it.

Maybe it's a bit of a mom instinct in me, but at least I'm always prepared for any situation...

so prepared that I always carry an extra snack with me too. You never know when your tummy will say it's hungry!

So...what's in your handbag? Are you a tote or clutch kind of gal?

New Year's Resolutions...

I'm just like a lot of other people. I make resolutions, swear I'm going to stick by them and then they usually fall off to the wayside.....and then the cycle continues the next year.

I did the same thing this year. Made my resolutions and never stuck to them. But, I figured it's better late than never to take a look at some of them and re-new my commitment to them...and what a better place to document it than my blog. Then, this way I know I'll have to check back in with them to keep up with my progress.

So here goes nothing...

• Eat more fruits and veggies
• If I could live off of sweets and carbs, that would make me the happiest girl in the world. But I can't..to help me out, I want to start making weekly trips to the farmer's market. I think it will be a bit more fun this way to incorporate more color into my meals.
• Cook more often
• I am the queen of eating out. I always say I'm going to find new recipes to make and while I find them, after a long day of work, I don't want to cook! I'm going to try to find an easier way for me to cook after work so no more take out...ok well, once a week is ok.
• Read more
• Ever since I was little, I loved to read. But, as I've gotten older, I've stuck to reading more magazines and watching tv to unwind. I want to start reading everyday...whether it's on my lunch or before bed.
• Stick to my early morning workouts
• Sometimes getting up at 5 a.m. to work out is not so much fun...ok it's NEVER fun! Once in awhile I fall right back to sleep and skip it! As much as I hate being up so early, I know I have to work out in the morning rather than going after work when there's such a big crowd.
• Taking Gia on a walk at least once a day
• Most days I do get to this, but just wanted to write it down so I don't forget!
• Write more cards
• Writing personal cards to my friends for holidays, birthdays or just to say hello, has been another favorite thing of mine to do. But, with the advent of texting and facebook, I've forgotten about it a bit in the past few years...

These are just some of my resolutions. I'm sure I'll have some more. What resolutions did you make? Did you stick to them? 

CLOSED

I just heard on Thursday night that the Melting Pot in Omaha at Village Pointe is officially closing after tonight :( So sad...That was mine and my bf's favorite place to go for birthdays, holidays and other special date nights.

I wish we could have had one more dinner there, but I'm out of town traveling with work this weekend so that wasn't going to happen. So now I'm on a quest to find similar fondue recipes..anybody have any suggestions?

Until we meet again Melting Pot...may you continue to bring lots of joy and yumminess to other cities!

Busy Little Bee!

That's been me lately! I just moved into my new house after nearly 5 months of living out of boxes...let's just say that HGTV does not make moving/getting a new house look as easy as it is on tv!

In addition to that, I've been super busy with work as well as my part time job with the pageant which I just started traveling for on the weekends. Needless to say, I am counting down the days till I have a free day off!

So, I apologize for not writing as much! Between unpacking and traveling and work, I'm trying to find a balance between work and relaxation! I think I've finally found it thought..

Until next time...

Happy St Patty's Day

Happy Leprechaun day!!!

I hate to be a grinch on this holiday, and hate to admit it, but St. Patrick's day is one of my three least favorite holidays! Not sure why I'm not a fan of this holiday (nor Halloween or New Year's Eve). I could attribute it to the fact that I dislike, and am deathly afraid, of anything in costume. My favorite holidays are Thanksgiving, Christmas and 4th of July because they're family oriented (and have really good food for each!) But, I still got festive and wore green to celebrate the holiday!

Training

Running a marathon has always been on my bucket list. It just seems like one of those monumental things to do in life.

But I have to face the reality that I'm not a big fan of running..not to mention I'm almost positive there's no way I can run for 26 miles.

This past weekend I was reading in Fitness magazine about the Disney Princess Half marathon. Being a pageant girl, anything involving a crown or the word princess really fascinates me. After researching it a bit more, this seemed like something I'd want to cross of my bucket list. If I can't handle 26 miles, a half marathon doesn't seem so bad. Not to mention, if contestants on the Biggest Loser can run a marathon, then a fitness fanatic like myself could surely handle a half marathon.

So...it's official. One of my best friends and pageants besties, Tristan, and I have decided to do it together and be each other's long distance training buddies for the next year (she lives in Arizona). I figure if I'm going to run a half marathon, it may as well be a memorable one so why not do it at the happiest place on earth!

I've got a whole year to train and I couldn't be more excited. I'll be blogging here and there about it throughout the year. I know it'll be tough but it's a once in a lifetime thing to do...and I'm glad I'll have my bestie with me!

A Wisconsinite takes on Omaha....

I've lived in Omaha almost two years and there are still some sayings and things I don't understand. While I do live in Nebraska, I'll always be a Wisconsin girl at heart and some things will never change for me...

For instance, it took me almost two years to realize that in Omaha, every restaurant does not have fish fries on every Friday, not just during Lent. A big letdown for this Wisconsin girl..however, I have found some local restaurants that have "fish and chips" on their menu so that'll have to do for now.

Some other observations from this out of towner...

An ATM will always be a tyme machine to me.
A Shirley Temple (Sprite with cherry) is a kiddie cocktail.
Water fountains are bubblers.
A bag is not called a sack.
Lake Zorinsky looks like a big giant pond to me, not a lake.
Culver's will never take the place of real custard in my heart.
I really miss having professional sports in Omaha..while we have good college teams, there's still something about a pro baseball or basketball game.
Omahans and Milwaukeeans always freak out in snow, even if it is only a few inches.
The city of Omaha really needs to learn how to plow...it's a bit unacceptable for my street to not be plowed three days after it snows.
Getting to downtown Omaha in less than 20 minutes is a nice luxury.
AND checking in at the airport, and going through security in Omaha in under 10 minutes is another luxury.

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood

Today it actually felt like spring outside...minus the melting snow and dead grass. The sun was shining and it was a high up in the 40s! Definitely felt like a heat wave.



I've really missed having nice weather. When it is fairly decent outside, I love taking Gia on a walk. It's great being outside and her little legs enjoy the exercise too. But I'm not a fan of when her white fur gets all dirty. I was convinced if we walked away from the melting snow that she'd stay clean. Boy was I ever wrong..

Before we left...



And when we got home, look at what we had a date with...


Gia absolutely HATES getting into the sink to get a bath. I swear she's yelling at me in her little head when I get her wet. But, at least we're dirt free and smell daisy fresh now!